How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Franklin County Civil Defense.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Franklin County Civil Defense is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Franklin County Civil Defense.

Frequently asked questions about Franklin County Civil Defense

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Franklin County Civil Defense.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Franklin County Civil Defense?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Franklin County Civil Defense?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Franklin County Civil Defense. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Franklin County Civil Defense. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Franklin County Civil Defense?

   Mailing address:

   Franklin County Civil Defense
   39 W Oneida St
   Preston, ID 83263
   Phone: (208) 852-1234

5. What are the visiting hours at Franklin County Civil Defense?

   Visiting hours at Franklin County Civil Defense vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (208) 852-1234 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Franklin County Civil Defense?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Franklin County Civil Defense for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Franklin County Civil Defense?

   You can send money to an inmate at Franklin County Civil Defense through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Franklin County Civil Defense?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Franklin County Civil Defense, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Franklin County Civil Defense?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Franklin County Civil Defense for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Franklin County Civil Defense, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal growth and rehabilitation form the cornerstone of service delivery at Franklin County Sheriff's Department in Indiana, where inmates have access to structured opportunities designed to address underlying issues and build essential life skills. The facility typically operates under a philosophy that meaningful change occurs through comprehensive support addressing educational gaps, vocational deficiencies, and personal challenges that may have contributed to incarceration. This approach recognizes that successful reintegration into the community requires more than simply serving time—it demands active participation in services that foster personal development and prepare individuals for productive futures.

Educational services often include basic literacy instruction, GED preparation, and adult education courses that help inmates complete their high school equivalency requirements. These academic opportunities may provide foundational skills necessary for further learning and employment success. Also, vocational training services typically focus on practical skill development in areas such as construction trades, food service, or maintenance work. Such programs aim to equip participants with marketable abilities that can lead to stable employment upon release, addressing one of the key factors in reducing recidivism.

The facility may provide individual counseling services that address personal issues, behavioral patterns, and mental health concerns through one-on-one therapeutic sessions. These counseling services often work in conjunction with trauma-informed care approaches that recognize the impact of past experiences on current behavior and decision-making. Also, faith-based programs typically offer spiritual guidance and community support for inmates seeking to explore their beliefs and find meaning through religious or spiritual practices. Together, these therapeutic and support services create a comprehensive framework for addressing the complex needs of the incarcerated population.

Daily Life & Visitation

The housing units at Franklin County Sheriff's facility create a structured environment where inmates must quickly learn to navigate shared living spaces and established routines. Inmates now find themselves adapting to dormitory-style accommodations or individual cells, depending on their classification level and available space. The facility regularly maintains count times throughout the day, which provide structure and ensure all residents are accounted for.

Living conditions typically include basic furnishings such as beds, storage areas, and shared bathroom facilities. Inmates generally receive three meals daily in designated dining areas, with menus that meet nutritional standards while accommodating dietary restrictions when possible. Personal property is usually limited to approved items, and inmates may access commissary services to purchase additional necessities and approved snacks. However, all purchases must comply with facility guidelines and security protocols.

Also available are various programming opportunities that provide inmates with constructive ways to spend their time and prepare for reentry. Work assignments within the facility may include kitchen duties, maintenance tasks, or cleaning responsibilities, which often help inmates develop routine and responsibility. Recreation periods typically allow for physical exercise, television viewing, or reading materials from the facility library. Family connections remain important through scheduled visitation periods and phone privileges, though these communications are generally monitored according to standard security procedures. Educational programming and counseling services may also be offered to support inmates' personal development during their incarceration.